The Benefits of Completing an Advanced Health Directive

An advanced health directive, also known as a living will or advance care directive, is a legal document that outlines an individual’s preferences for medical treatment in case they become unable to communicate their wishes. Here are some compelling reasons why completing an advanced health directive is particularly beneficial.

1 Empowers Decision Making

As people age, there’s a higher likelihood of facing critical health issues or medical emergencies. Completing an advanced health directive empowers individuals to make decisions about their healthcare while they are still capable. By clearly expressing their preferences regarding life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and end-of-life care, individuals maintain control over their medical decisions even if they are incapacitated.

2 Relieves Burden on Family

Medical crises can be emotionally taxing for families, especially if they’re left guessing about their loved one’s wishes. Having an advanced health directive in place alleviates the burden on family members by providing clear guidance on the individual’s preferences for medical care. This clarity reduces conflicts and ensures that the family can focus on providing support and comfort rather than making difficult decisions during already stressful times.

3 Ensures Personalised Care

Every individual has unique values, beliefs, and medical preferences. An advanced health directive allows individuals to articulate their specific desires for medical treatment, ensuring that their care aligns with their personal values and wishes. Whether someone prefers aggressive treatment options or prioritizes quality of life over prolonging it, the directive serves as a roadmap for healthcare providers to deliver personalised care tailored to the individual’s preferences.

4 Avoids Unwanted Interventions

As people age, they may face declining health and increasing frailty. In such situations, individuals may wish to avoid certain medical interventions that offer little benefit or may diminish their quality of life. Completing an advanced health directive allows individuals to express their preferences regarding treatments such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), mechanical ventilation, or feeding tubes, thus avoiding unwanted interventions that may prolong suffering unnecessarily.

5 Ensures Peace of Mind

Knowing that one’s healthcare wishes are documented and legally recognised provides a profound sense of peace and reassurance. This sense of control over one’s medical future can greatly reduce anxiety and uncertainty surrounding end-of-life care. Advanced health directives play a vital role in promoting dignity and autonomy in aging populations. It is never too early to create an advanced health directive, and doing so can offer invaluable benefits for individuals and their families as they navigate the complexities of aging and healthcare decision-making.